When Dimple Met Rishi arrived in my mailbox back in February, I couldn’t help but instantly find it so charming. It was just the type of young adult rom-com I had been seeking: fun and sweet, but with characters don’t often see in leading roles, unless we look to Bollywood.
I had the opportunity to ask author Sandhya Menon a few questions about her YA debut novel, her favorite Bollywood films, and what inspired her to write a romantic comedy. Read on below, and check out our Instagram giveaway for a chance to win a copy of When Dimple Met Rishi.
What inspired you to write When Dimple Met Rishi?
The world needs more sweet, heartwarming, funny stories about marginalized teens! As an immigrant and child of immigrants myself, I wanted to show this population living their best lives, falling in love, following their passions, and having a happy ending.
Which word best describes Dimple?
Firecracker.
Which word best describes Rishi?
Adorkable.
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Why was it important to write this story in alternate viewpoints?
Because the two main characters are such opposites, I wanted readers to be able to glimpse why they acted the way they did. I didn’t want either to feel unsympathetic, and I felt that was best accomplished by showing people what went on in both their heads!
Romantic comedies almost feel like a lost art these days. What attracted you to the genre and to write a story about young adult characters?
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I’ve been a huuuuge rom-com fan. I loved those Meg Ryan films from the nineties, and as I found authors like Sophie Kinsella, I totally fell in love with the fiction genre, too. It was just a natural progression to write a story like When Dimple Met Rishi!
If you could spend one day with any of the characters in When Dimple Met Rishi, who would it be and why?
I won’t choose Dimple or Rishi (too obvious, right?). So it’d probably be Dimple’s mom because I think she’s hilarious!
When Dimple Met Rishi is described as “Eleanor & Park meets Bollywood with the humor and heart of My Big Fat Greek Wedding.” Can you share some Bollywood and Hollywood recommendations for those who fall in love with Dimple and Rishi?
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Bollywood: Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, Chalte Chalte, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge.
Hollywood: When Harry Met Sally, Sleepless in Seattle, You’ve Got Mail, and My Best Friend’s Wedding.
GIVEAWAY
Follow us on Instagram @TYFofficial and comment on our giveaway gram below with your favorite romantic comedy film or book. One lucky follower and commenter will be chosen as the winner of an advance readers copy of When Dimple Met Rishi. Contest ends 11pm EST on May 29, 2017. US residents only.
When Dimple Met Rishi is available May 30, 2017 wherever books are sold.
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